Influence of Reservoir Heterogeneity on Simultaneous Geothermal Energy Extraction and CO 2 Storage

Mrityunjay Singh (), Saeed Mahmoodpour (), Cornelia Schmidt-Hattenberger, Ingo Sass and Michael Drews
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Mrityunjay Singh: Section 4.8 Geoenergy, German Research Center for Geosciences Potsdam, 14473 Potsdam, Germany
Saeed Mahmoodpour: Geothermal Technologies, Technical University of Munich, 80333 München, Germany
Cornelia Schmidt-Hattenberger: Section 4.8 Geoenergy, German Research Center for Geosciences Potsdam, 14473 Potsdam, Germany
Ingo Sass: Section 4.8 Geoenergy, German Research Center for Geosciences Potsdam, 14473 Potsdam, Germany
Michael Drews: Geothermal Technologies, Technical University of Munich, 80333 München, Germany

Sustainability, 2023, vol. 16, issue 1, 1-23

Abstract: This numerical study delves into the dynamic interaction between reservoir heterogeneity and its impact on the dual objectives of geothermal energy extraction and CO 2 sequestration. Employing finite element models, this research scrutinizes the effects of variable porosity, permeability, and capillary entry pressures on fluid dynamics and thermal processes within geothermal systems. Key findings reveal that these heterogeneities significantly dictate fluid behavior and heat distribution, influencing the operational efficiency and environmental sustainability of geothermal–CO 2 storage operations. By integrating the nonlinear, temperature-dependent properties of fluids, simulations provide in-depth insights into the coupled fluid–thermal interactions that govern system performance. The outcomes offer a refined understanding of the complex interdependencies within heterogeneous reservoirs, underpinning the optimization of design and operational methodologies for co-optimized geothermal energy and CO 2 storage solutions. Ultimately, this research contributes to the advancement of sustainable energy technologies, highlighting further investigative pathways to bolster the efficiency and longevity of two-phase water–CO 2 geothermal systems.

Keywords: reservoir heterogeneity; hydrothermal processes; CO 2 storage; local capillary trapping (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2023
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (1)

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